Comparison of anion-exchange and hydrophobic interactions between two new silica-based long-chain alkylimidazolium stationary phases for LC

Two new silica-based long-chain alkylimidazolium stationary phases were prepared and characterized for their use in high-performance liquid chromatography. The stationary phases were both prepared by the reaction of chloropropyl silica with long-chain alkylimidazoles and were used to separate common inorganic anions. Hydrophobic interactions were also studied by the comparison of differential retention of various organic compounds. The alkyl chain length did not show an impact on the anion-exchange process but affected the hydrophobic interaction of the stationary phases.